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Hasidic Dynasties

The author discusses the form, function and history of the dynastic leadership style characteristic of many Hasidic groups. He discusses possible reasons for the development of dynastic succession even though the first Hasidic masters did not found dynasties, and discusses the cases of Bratzlav and (more recently) Chabad, for whom the lack of a living dynasty of rebbes has not caused the sect to wither. The author further discusses the informal but powerful roles played by female relatives of Hasidic rebbes.